Larry L. Murdock, Purdue University distinguished professor emeritus, was born in Linton, Indiana. Mentored and inspired by Lowell Hardin, Murdock's work laid the foundation for the world's first insect-resistant genetically modified seeds and for Bt-cowpea, now in the field in Nigeria. His work also led to the development of the PICS grain storage technology, which is used throughout the world.
Thomas W. Hertel is Distinguished Professor of Agricultural Economics at Purdue University. His research and teaching focuses on international trade, food, and environmental security. He is a 2022 recipient of the Alexander von Humboldt Research Prize, and he serves as the founder and executive director of the Global Trade Analysis Project (GTAP), which now encompasses more than 29,000 researchers in 179 countries.
Gebisa Ejeta is Distinguished Professor of Plant Breeding and Genetics and International Agriculture at Purdue University, and director of the Purdue Center for Global Food Security. He has been highly honored for his significant contributions to science and development. Ejeta was awarded the World Food Prize in 2009, and received the US National Medal of Science, given by President Biden, in 2023.
